Pipe holder

ABSTRACT

Pipe holders retain a first pipe and a second pipe having a connector cable extending through the second pipe. The pipe holder has a first retaining section that detachably holds and fixes the first pipe and a second retaining section that detachably holds and fixes the second pipe. A second retaining chamber is surrounded by an internal surface of the second retaining section. A guide section communicatively connects the second retaining chamber to outside of the pipe holder, wherein the first retaining section, the second retaining section and the guide section are made of metal, and the connector cable that extends through second pipe and has at least one end to be connected to an electronic musical instrument is guided through the guide section to the outside. A coupling section couples the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the guide section is formed in the coupling section.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED FOREIGN APPLICATION

This application is a non-provisional application that claims priority benefits 5 under Title 35, United States Code, Section 119(a)-(d) from Japanese Patent Application entitled “PIPE HOLDER” by Yoshiaki MORI, having Japanese Patent Application Serial No. 2009-200976, filed on Aug. 31, 2009, which Japanese Patent Application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to pipe holders, including pipe holders that can fix and release of fixing of two pipes independently from each other. Furthermore, the invention particularly relates to pipe holders that can prevent damage to connector cables at the time of fixing pipes.

2. Description of the Related Art

Musical instruments such as drums and cymbals played by performers are attached to musical instrument stands, and are arranged at positions according to preferences of the performers. A musical instrument stand is structured through connecting a plurality of pipes. By changing positions of pipe holders connecting these plural pipes, the height of the musical instrument, its angle and its distance from the performer can be adjusted.

Also, a pipe holder connects two pipes together. Further, the pipe holder may be equipped with a guide section. The guide section guides connector cables, which are contained inside the pipes, to the exterior thereof. The connector cables have at least one end being connectable to an electronic musical instrument. For example, U.S. published patent application 2008-0229901 describes a coupler device (pipe holder) having cable ports 38 (guide sections) formed therein. The cable ports 38 (guide sections) are formed by placing two compression elements 27 and 28 opposite to each other and compressing them against each other. Further, the cable ports 38 (guide sections) retain two members 31 and 32 (first pipe and second pipe), and also guide cables (connector cables) to the exterior. U.S. published patent application 2008-0229901 (Paragraphs [0047] and [0048], and FIG. 10)

However, the coupler device described above is structured to fix the two members 31 and 32 and the cables all together by the two compression elements 27 and 28. Accordingly, when one of the members 31 is released from its fixed state, the other member 32 and the cables are also released from their fixed state. Accordingly, when the coupled position of the member 31 wants to be changed, the coupled position of the other member 32 also needs to be readjusted, in addition to adjustment of the coupled position of the member 31. Moreover, the position of the cables needs to be readjusted with respect to the cable ports 38. This causes a problem in that the work becomes complex. Moreover, when fixing the two members 31 and 32 together, if the cables are not securely positioned in the cable ports 38, the cables may be pinched by the two compression elements 27 and 28 and damaged.

SUMMARY

Described embodiments provide a pipe holder equipped with a first retaining section that detachably holds and fixes a first pipe; a second retaining section that detachably holds and fixes a second pipe; and a guide section that communicatively connects a second retaining chamber surrounded by an internal surface of the second retaining section to the outside, wherein the first retaining section, the second retaining section and the guide section are made of metal, and a connector cable that is stored inside the second pipe and has at least one end to be connected to an electronic musical instrument is guided through the guide section to the outside, the pipe holder comprising a coupling section for coupling the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the guide section is formed in the coupling section.

In a further embodiment, the guide section opens in a direction traversing a longitudinal direction of the first pipe that is held and fixed by the first retaining section.

In a further embodiment, the opening of the guide section is generally rectangular in a front view having short-sides along a line connecting the first retaining section and the second retaining section.

In a further embodiment, the pipe holder has a cable sleeve that is made of an elastic member and has a first opening section and a second opening section which open in one side and the other side and communicate with each other, wherein the cable sleeve has a first cylindrical portion formed in a cylindrical shape that can be fitted inside the guide section and having the first opening section opened on one end side thereof.

In a further embodiment, the cable sleeve has a slit cut from the first opening section to the second opening section.

In a further embodiment, the slit in the cable sleeve has a cut width smaller than an outer diameter of the connector cable.

In a further embodiment, the cable sleeve has a second cylindrical section that is formed in a cylindrical shape that can be fitted inside the second pipe and has the second opening section at one end thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a musical instrument stand using clamps in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention and pipe holders in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the clamp in a state in which a curved pipe and a support pipe are retained.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the clamp viewed in a direction of an arrow III in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 (a) is a rear side view of the clamp in a direction of an arrow IV (a) in FIG. 3, and FIG. 4 (b) is a rear side view of the clamp in a state in which a first part is opened.

FIG. 5 (a) is a side view of a pipe sleeve, and FIG. 5 (b) is a front view of the pipe sleeve viewed in a direction of an arrow Vb in FIG. 5 (a).

FIG. 6( a) is a rear side view of the first part. FIG. 6 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the first part taken along a line VIb-VIb in FIG. 6 (a). FIG. 6 (c) is a rear side view of the first part in a state in which a pipe sleeve is mounted. FIG. 6 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the first part taken along a line VId-VId in FIG. 6 (c).

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the clamp in a state retaining the curved pipe taken along a line VII-VII in FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the pipe holder in accordance with the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 (a) is a top side view of the pipe holder. FIG. 9 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the pipe holder taken along a line IXb-IXb in FIG. 9 (a) in a state in which a vertical upstanding pipe is retained.

FIG. 10 (a) is a cross-sectional view of the pipe holder taken along a line Xa-Xa in FIG. 9 (a). FIG. 10 (b) is a side view of the pipe holder in a state in which the second part is opened.

FIG. 11 (a) is a front view of the cable sleeve. FIG. 11 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the cable sleeve taken along a line XIb-XIb in FIG. 11 (a). FIG. 11 (c) is a cross-sectional view of the cable sleeve taken along a line XIc-XIc in FIG. 11 (a). FIG. 11 (d) is a front view of the cable sleeve in a state in which the slit cut is opened wider.

FIG. 12 (a) is an exploded perspective view of the pipe holder and a container pipe in a state in which an upstanding pipe is retained. FIG. 12 (b) is a front view of the container pipe and the pipe holder in a state in which the second part is opened.

FIG. 13 (a) is a rear side view of a first fixing section in accordance with a third embodiment. FIG. 13 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the first fixing section taken along a line XIIIb-XIIIb in FIG. 13 (a). FIG. 13 (c) is a cross-sectional view of the first fixing section when the pipe sleeve is mounted, and is a view corresponding to FIG. 13 (b).

FIG. 14 (a) is a rear side view of a pipe sleeve in accordance with a fourth embodiment. FIG. 14 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the pipe sleeve taken along a line XIVb-XIVb in FIG. 14 (a). FIG. 14 (c) is a rear side view of the first part in a state with the pipe sleeve mounted. FIG. 14 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the first part taken along a line XIVd-XIVd in FIG. 14 (c).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described embodiments provide pipe holders that can perform fixing of two pipes and releasing them from the fixed state independently from each other. The described embodiments provide pipe holders that can prevent damage to connector cables when the pipes are fixed together.

The pipe holder in certain embodiments has the coupling section that couples the first retaining section with the second retaining section. Therefore, fixing of the first pipe to the first retaining section or releasing the same from their fixed state, or fixing of the second pipe to the second retaining section or releasing the same from their fixed state may be performed independently from each other. Accordingly, when the coupled position of only one of the first pipe and the second pipe is to be changed, one of the first pipe and the second pipe respectively fixed to the first retaining section and the second retaining section can be released from their fixed state while keeping the other of the first pipe and the second pipe fixed respectively to the first retaining section and the second retaining section, whereby the coupled position of one of the first pipe and the second pipe can be changed. Accordingly, the work efficiency in adjusting positions of pipes can be improved.

In certain embodiments, the guide section is formed in the coupling section. Therefore, the connection position of the first pipe or the second pipe can be adjusted while the connector cable is contained in the guide section. Accordingly, it is not necessary to position the connector cable again each time the position of the pipe is adjusted. For this reason, the work efficiency can be improved. Furthermore, without regard to fixing the first pipe and the second pipe respectively by the first retaining section and the second retaining section or releasing them from their fixed state, the volume occupied by the guide section can be maintained constant. Therefore, when the first pipe or the second pipe is held and fixed by the first retaining section or the second retaining section, the connector cable can be prevented from being pinched and damaged by the first retaining section or the second retaining section.

In certain embodiments, the guide section opens in a direction traversing the longitudinal direction of the first pipe to be held and fixed by the first retaining section. Therefore, when two pipe holders are brought closer to and mounted on a first pipe, and the pipe holder in this state is rotationally moved about the first pipe as an axis, the connector cable can be prevented from being pinched and cut by the two pipe holders.

In the prior art, when two pipe holders are brought closer to and mounted on a first pipe, the opening section opens in a direction along the longitudinal direction of the first pipe that is held and fixed by the first retaining section. Therefore, the connector cable is guided between the two pipe holders brought close to each other to be mounted on the pipe. As a consequence, when the pipe holder is rotationally moved about the first pipe as an axis, there is a danger that the connector cable may be pinched and cut by the two pipe holders. In certain embodiments, the guide section opens in a direction traversing the longitudinal direction of the first pipe that is held and fixed by the first retaining section. Therefore, the connector cable is prevented from being guided between the two pipe holders that are brought close to each other and mounted on the first pipe. In other words, the danger described above can be avoided.

In further embodiments, the opening of the guide section has a generally rectangular shape in a front view having short-sides in a direction along a line connecting between the first retaining section and the second retaining section. For this reason, for example, compared to the case where the shape of an opening of a guide section is in a generally circular shape or a generally rectangular shape with long-sides extending in a direction along a line connecting between the first retaining section and the second retaining section, the distance between the first retaining section and the second retaining section can be made shorter. Accordingly, the overall size of the pipe holder can be made smaller as a result of the coupling section being made smaller, whereby the pipe holder can be made lighter in weight.

In yet further embodiments, the cable sleeve is made of an elastic member. The cable sleeve has the first opening section and the second opening section that open respectively toward one side and the other side thereof and communicate with each other. Further, the cable sleeve is formed in a cylindrical shape in a manner to be fitted inside the guide section. Moreover, the cable sleeve is equipped on one end side thereof with the first cylindrical section where the first opening section is opened. For this reason, as one end of the connector cable to be contained in the pipe holder is inserted in the second opening and passed through the first opening section fitted inside the guide section, the connector cable can be guided externally. Therefore, the connector cable can be prevented from directly contacting the guide section. Accordingly, when the coupled position of the first pipe or the second pipe is to be changed, the portion of the connector cable that is in contact with the opening section of the guide section can be prevented from damage, which may result from pulling of the connector cable while it is in contact with the opening section of the guide section.

Specifically, in the prior art, when the connector cable is pulled when the pipe holder is rotationally moved, a stress works in a direction different from the direction in which the connector cable is pulled on a portion of the connector cable that is in contact with the opening section of the guide section. Further, the opening section is made of metal. For this reason, the connector cable would readily be damaged by the stress concentrated on a portion of the connector cable that is in contact with the opening section of the guide section. In contrast, in accordance with certain embodiments, the cable sleeve made of an elastic member is fitted inside the guide section that is made of metal. Furthermore, the connector cable is contained inside the cable sleeve. Therefore, the stress concentrated on a portion of the connector cable can be reduced, whereby damage to the connector cable can be avoided.

In yet further embodiments, the slit is formed in the cable sleeve, which is cut from the first opening section to the second opening section. For this reason, the connector cable can be stored inside the cable sleeve through the slit. Therefore, the work efficiency in storing the connector cable inside the cable sleeve can be improved.

In other words, if the cut is not provided in the cable sleeve, when a connector cable is to be stored inside the cable sleeve, one end of the connector cable needs to be inserted in one of the first opening section and the second opening section and passed through the other of the first opening section and the second opening section. Moreover, the connector cable placed inside the cable sleeve needs to be tugged in by a necessary length, at one end of the connector cable inserted and passed in the cable sleeve. For this reason, in particular, when the connector cable to be guided to the outside is long, the work efficiency lowers. In contrast, in accordance with described embodiments, a cut is provided in the cable sleeve that is made of an elastic member. Therefore, the intermediate portion of the connector cable can be placed inside the cable sleeve through the slit while opening the slit wider. Accordingly, the work can be efficiently performed irrespective of the length of the connector cable to be guided.

In further embodiments, the cut width of the slit formed in the cable sleeve is smaller than the outer diameter of the connector cable. For this reason, the connector cable contained inside the cable sleeve can be prevented from slipping out through the slit. Accordingly, when the cable sleeve is fitted inside the guide section, the connector cable contained inside the cable sleeve can be prevented from slipping out of the slit and being damaged by the opening section of the guide section that may come in contact with the connector cable.

In further embodiments, the cable sleeve is formed in a cylindrical shape that can be fitted inside the second pipe. Furthermore, the cable sleeve is equipped at one end thereof with the second cylindrical portion where the second opening section is opened. For this reason, the connector cable contained inside the second pipe can be guided from the second opening section that opens at one end of the second cylindrical section fitted inside the second pipe to the first opening section. Therefore, when the connector cable is guided through the guide section to the outside, the connector cable can be prevented from directly contacting an end section of the second pipe. Accordingly, even when the end section of the second pipe has burs or the like, damage to the connector cable can be prevented.

Hereunder, preferred embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a musical instrument stand 1 using clamps 10 in accordance with a first embodiment and pipe holders 100 in accordance with a second embodiment. First, referring to FIG. 1, an outline of the structure of the musical instrument stand 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the musical instrument stand 1 is structured with members for attaching musical instruments such as electronic drums, electronic cymbals and the like to be played by performers. The musical instrument stand 1 is primarily equipped with a plurality of upstanding pipes 2, a plurality of curved pipes 3, a plurality of support pipes 4, a plurality of clamps 10, and a plurality of pipe holders 100. The upstanding pipes 2 stand upright on the ground surface. The curved pipes 3 are disposed generally in parallel with the ground surface. The support pipes 4 support the musical instruments. The clamps 10 couple the curved pipes 3 and the support pipes 4. The pipe holders 100 couple the upstanding pipes 2 and the curved pipes 3.

The curved pipes 3 are tubular members that are hollow inside and curved in an arc shape. Some of the plural curved pipes 3 are used as container pipes 3 a. Connector cables 5 having at least one ends connectable to the electronic musical instruments are stored inside the container pipes 3 a.

Next, referring to FIGS. 2-4, the structure of the clamp 10 will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the clamp 10 in a state retaining the curved pipe 3 and the support pipe 4. FIG. 3 is a side view of the clamp 10 viewed in a direction of an arrow III in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 (a) is a rear side view of the clamp 10 in a direction of an arrow IV (a) in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 (b) is a rear side view of the clamp 10 in a state in which a first part 30 is opened. It is noted that illustrations of the curved pipe 3 and the support pipe 4 are omitted in FIG. 3.

As shown in FIG. 2, the clamps 10 are members to couple the support pipes 4 to the curved pipes 3 when the musical instruments to be supported by the support pipes are disposed according to the preference of the performer. The clamp 10 is primarily equipped with a first pipe retaining section 11 and a second pipe retaining section 12. The first pipe retaining section 11 detachably holds and retains the curved pipe 3. The second pipe retaining section 12 detachably holds and retains the support pipe 4.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first pipe retaining section 11 is a portion that holds and retains the curved pipe 3, and is formed in a generally cylindrical shape. The first pipe retaining section 11 is primarily equipped with a first fixing section 21, a first part 30 and a fastening member 51. The first fixing section 21 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape on one side (on the left side of FIG. 3) of a base section 20 that is a part of the clamp 10. The first part 30 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape as a part of the clamp 10. Further, the first part 30 is supported in a manner rotatable on its axis on one end side (on the upper side of FIG. 3) of the first fixing section 21. The fastening member 51 is supported in a manner rotatable on its axis on the other end side (on the lower side of FIG. 3) of the first fixing section 21.

The first fixing section 21 is a portion that forms one side of the first pipe retaining section 11. Further, the first fixing section 21 is primarily equipped with a first abutting surface 23, and a pair of bolt fixing sections 24. The first abutting surface 23 is formed in an arc shape, as viewed in a direction of an axis O1 that is an axis of the first pipe retaining section 11 (i.e., in a direction of a line connecting between a center of the opening of the first pipe retaining section 11 at one end side thereof and a center of the opening at the other end side thereof). The pair of bolt fixing sections 24 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the other end side (the lower side of FIG. 3).

The first abutting surface 23 forms one side of the internal peripheral surface of the first pipe retaining section 11. Also, the first abutting surface 23 is a portion that retains one side of the curved pipe 3. Further, the pipe sleeve 61 is in contact with the inner side of the first abutting surface 23. The pipe sleeve 61 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape with a resin material.

The first part 30 is a part in a semi-cylindrical shape that forms the other side of the first pipe retaining section 11. Also, the first part 30 is primarily equipped with a first fastening surface 31, and a first bolt insertion section 32. The first fastening surface 31 is formed in an arc shape as viewed in the axial direction O1. The first bolt insertion section 32 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the other end side (the lower side of FIG. 3) of the first part 30. Further, the first part 30 is supported in a manner rotatable on its axis on the one end side (the upper side of FIG. 3) of the first fixing section 21, while maintaining the first fastening surface 31 to face the first abutting surface 23 of the first fixing section 21.

The first fastening surface 31 is a portion that forms the other side of the internal peripheral surface of the first pipe retaining section 11. Also, the first fastening surface 31 is a portion that retains the other side of the curved pipe 3. Further, a pipe sleeve 62 is in contact with the inner side of the first fastening surface 31 (see FIG. 4 (b)). The pipe sleeve 62 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape with a resin material.

As shown in FIG. 4 (a) or FIG. 4 (b), the pair of first bolt fixing sections 24 are juxtaposed with a predetermined interval provided along the axial direction O1. Also, a bolt shaft section 51 b to be described below is inserted between the pair of first bolt fixing sections 24. Also, a rotation shaft passes through the pair of first bolt fixing sections 24 and the bolt shaft section 51 b. Also, the bolt shaft section 51 b is rotatably supported by the pair of bolt fixing sections 24 about a rotation center.

The first bolt insertion section 32 is formed in a generally U-letter shape as viewed from a side surface direction (in the left-right direction in FIG. 4 (a)). Further, a groove is formed in a center portion of the first bolt insertion section 32. The groove opens toward the outside (to the forward side of FIG. 4 (a)). Further, a male screw section 51 a to be described below can be inserted in the groove.

The fastening member 51 is a member that pushes the first part 30 toward the first fixing section 21 for pinching and tightening the curved pipe 3 that is held between the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31. The fastening member 51 is primarily equipped with a male screw section 51 a, a bolt shaft section 51 b, a handle nut 51 c, and a washer 51 d. The male screw section 51 a is formed in a rod shape with its outer peripheral surface having male threads. The bolt shaft section 51 b is fixed at one end side of the male screw section 51 a. Also, the bolt shaft section 51 b is rotatably supported by the first bolt fixing section 24 on its axis. The handle nut 51 c is provided with a female screw aperture 51 c 1 in a manner to pass through the handle nut 51 c. Female screw threads to be in thread-engagement with the male screw section 51 a are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the female screw aperture 51 c 1. The washer 51 d is provided between the bolt shaft section 51 b and the handle nut 51 c. Also, the washer 51 d is a ring shaped member, and is loosely mounted on the male screw section 51 a. Further, a coil spring (not shown) is mounted on the outside of the male screw section 51 a between the bolt shaft section 51 b and the washer 51 d. Moreover, the washer 51 d is pushed toward the handle nut 51 c by the coil spring.

Here, a method of fixing the curved pipe 3 by the first pipe retaining section 11 will be described. In order to hold and fix the curved pipe 3 by the first pipe retaining section 11, as shown in FIG. 4 (a), first, the handle nut 51 c is rotated about the male screw section 51 a as an axis, while the threads of the female screw aperture 51 c 1 engage with the threads of the male screw section 51 a. The washer 51 d is pushed toward the handle nut 51 c side by the coil spring (not shown). Then, the washer 51 d is pushed, by the handle nut 51 c, from the other end side of the male screw section 51 a to the one end side thereof (from the left side to the right side in FIG. 4 (a)). As the handle nut 51 c is kept being rotated, the washer 51 d that is pushed by the handle nut 51 c comes in contact with the first bolt insertion section 32. By further rotating the handle nut 51 c, the first bolt insertion section 32 is pushed toward one end side of the male screw section 51 a (toward the side of the first bolt fixing section 24) by the pressure force of the handle nut 51 c that is pushed through the washer 51 d.

In this manner, by pushing the first part 30 toward the first fixing section 21 by using the pressure force generated at the time of screwing the handle nut 51 c in the male screw section 51 a, the curved pipe 3 can be pinched and fixed between the first fixing section 21 and the first part 30.

As shown in FIG. 4 (a), the second pipe retaining section 12 is a portion that retains the support pipe 4, and is formed in a generally cylindrical shape. The second pipe retaining section 12 is primarily equipped with a second fixing section 22, a second part 40, and a fastening member 52. The second fixing section 22 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape on the other side (on the right side of FIG. 4 (a)) of the base section 20 that is a part of the clamp 10. The second part 40 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape as a part of the clamp 10. Further, the second part 40 is supported in a manner rotatable on its axis on one end side (on the lower side of FIG. 4 (a)) of the second fixing section 22. The fastening member 52 is supported in a manner rotatable on its axis on the other end side (on the upper side of FIG. 4 (a)) of the second fixing section 22.

The second fixing section 22 is formed on the other side of the base section 20. Also, the second fixing section 22 is a portion in a semi-cylindrical shape forming one side of the second pipe retaining section 12. Further, the second fixing section 22 is primarily equipped with a second abutting surface 25, and a second bolt fixing section 26 (see FIG. 3). The second abutting surface 25 is formed in an arc shape as viewed in an axial direction O2 that is an axis of the second pipe retaining section 12 (i.e., in a direction of a line connecting between a center of the opening of the second pipe retaining section 12 on one side thereof and a center of the opening on the other side thereof). The second bolt fixing section 26 continuously passes from the outer peripheral surface of the other end side (the upper side in FIG. 4 (a)) to the inner peripheral surface of the second fixing section 22. Also, the second bolt fixing section 26 opens in a direction of a second fastening surface 41 (to the right in FIG. 4 (a)). Further, the second bolt fixing section 26 is formed in a groove shape in which a bolt shaft section 52 b can be inserted. The second abutting surface 25 forms one side of the internal peripheral surface of the second pipe retaining section 12. The second abutting surface 25 is a portion that retains one side of the support pipe 4.

The second part 40 is a member in a semi-cylindrical shape forming the other side of the second pipe retaining section 12. Also, the second part 40 is primarily equipped with a second fastening surface 41 and a second bolt insertion section 42. The second fastening surface 41 is formed in an arc shape as viewed in the axial direction O2. The second bolt insertion section 42 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the other end side (the upper side of FIG. 4 (a)). Further, the second part 40 is supported in a manner rotatable on its axis on the one end side of the second fixing section 22, while maintaining the second fastening surface 41 to face the second abutting surface 25 of the second fixing section 22. The second fastening surface 41 is a portion forming the other side (the right side in FIG. 4 (a)) of the internal peripheral surface of the second pipe retaining section 12. Further, the second fastening surface 41 is a portion that retains the other side of the support pipe 4.

As shown in FIG. 3, the second bolt fixing section 26 is a portion in a groove shape that is provided in a generally right-angle channel shaped recessed state in a cross-sectional view along the axial direction O2 (in a cross-sectional view taken along a line A-A in FIG. 3). Also, the bolt shaft section 52 b is inserted in the second bolt fixing section 26. Also, a rotation axis is passed through the second bolt fixing section 26 and the bolt shaft section 52 b along the axial direction O2. The bolt shaft section 52 b is rotatably supported about the second bolt fixing section 26 as a center axis.

The second bolt insertion section 42 is formed in a generally U-letter shape (see FIG. 2) as viewed in the front surface direction (the left-right direction in FIG. 3). A groove is formed in a central portion of the second bolt insertion section 42. The groove opens toward the outside (the forward side of FIG. 3). Further, a male screw section 52 a can be inserted in the groove.

The fastening member 52 is a member that pushes the second part 40 toward the second fixing section 22 for pinching and fixing the support pipe 4 that is held between the second abutting surface 25 and the second fastening surface 41. The fastening member 52 has a male screw section 52 a, a bolt shaft section 52 b, a handle nut 52 c and a washer 52 d. The male screw section 52 a is formed in a rod shape with its outer peripheral surface having male threads. The bolt shaft section 52 b is fixed at one end side of the male screw section 52 a. Also, the bolt shaft section 52 b is rotatably supported by the second bolt fixing section 26 on its axis. The handle nut 52 c is provided with a female screw aperture 52 c 1 in a manner passing through the handle nut 52 c. Female screw threads for thread-engagement with the male screw section 52 a are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the female screw aperture 52 c 1. The washer 52 d is provided between the bolt shaft section 52 b and the handle nut 52 c. Also, the washer 51 d is a ring shaped member, and is loosely mounted on the male screw section 52 a. Further, a coil spring (not shown) is mounted on the outside of the male screw section 52 a between the bolt shaft section 52 b and the washer 52 d. Moreover, the washer 52 d is pushed toward the handle nut 52 c side by the coil spring. It is noted that the method of fixing the support pipe 4 by the second pipe retaining section 12 is similar to the method performed with the fastening member 51 described above.

It is noted that the base section 20, the first part 30 and the second part 40 are made of metal such as die-cast aluminum. This can improve the durability, compared to those made of resin material. Further, the necessary pressure can be secured at the time of retaining the curved pipe 3 and the support pipe 4.

Next, referring to FIG. 5, the structure of the pipe sleeve 62 will be described. FIG. 5 (a) is a side view of the pipe sleeve 62. FIG. 5 (b) is a rear view of the pipe sleeve 62 as viewed in a direction indicated by an arrow Vb in FIG. 5 (a). As the pipe sleeve 61 and the pipe sleeve 62 have an identical shape, only the pipe sleeve 62 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 5 (a) or FIG. 5 (b), the pipe sleeve 62 is a semi-cylindrical member composed of resin material containing glass fibers. Also, the pipe sleeve 62 is formed in a shape that conforms to the shape of the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31 (see FIG. 6 (c)).

Also, the pipe sleeve 62 has a pressure-insertion protrusion 62 a protruding from a central portion of the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62. The pressure-insertion protrusion 62 a is provided on its outer wall surface with a plurality of bumps. The pressure-insertion protrusion 62 a is pushed in a pressure-insertion hole section 31 c formed in the first fastening surface 31 (see FIG. 6 (a)). By this, the plurality of bumps formed on the pressure-insertion protrusion 62 a pushed in are pressed against the inner wall surface of the pressure-insertion hole section 31 c. As a result, the pressure-insertion protrusion 62 a can be more securely fitted in the pressure-insertion hole section 31 c. Accordingly, the pipe sleeve 62 can be more reliably mounted on the first fastening surface 31.

It is noted that the resin material used for the pipe sleeve may preferably have a Young's modulus greater than 0.5 GPa but less than 10 GPa. By setting the Young's modulus less than 10 GPa, the curved pipe 3 can be prevented from being damaged by the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 when the curved pipe 3 is clamped and fixed by the clamp 10. Also, the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 can be more readily deformed, conforming to the shape of the curved pipe 3 having a curved configuration. Because of this, a greater contact surface can be secured between the inner peripheral surface of the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 and the curved pipe 3.

By setting the Young's modulus greater than 0.5 GPa, absorption by the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 of the pressure to be generated when pinching and fixing the curved pipe 3 can be suppressed. By this, the pressure can be reliably transferred to the curved pipe 3. Also, compared to rubber or the like having a small Young's modulus, the deformation resisting property to compression can be made higher. For this reason, when fixing the curved pipe 3 with the clamp 10, and even when the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 are repeatedly continuously compressed between the curved pipe 3 and the first abutting surface 23 or the first fastening surface 31, permanent compressive deformation of the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 can be suppressed. Furthermore, the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 can have improved durability.

As the resin material to be used for the pipe sleeves 61 and 62, for example, polyamide, polypropylene, ABS resin, polycarbonate and the like may be used. For example, the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 in accordance with the present embodiment use polyamide compounded with glass fibers. By making glass fibers compounded therein, thermal deformation of the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 due to high temperatures can be suppressed, even when the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 are placed at high temperatures during transportation by ships or the like.

Next, referring to FIG. 6, the detailed structure of the first fastening surface 31 will be described. FIG. 6( a) is a rear side view of the first part 30. FIG. 6 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the first part 30 taken along a line VIb-VIb in FIG. 6 (a). FIG. 6 (c) is a rear side view of the first part 30 in a state in which the pipe sleeve 62 is fitted to the first fastening surface 31. FIG. 6 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the first part 30 taken along a line VId-VId in FIG. 6 (c).

As shown in FIG. 6 (a) or FIG. 6 (b), the first fastening surface 31 has a pair of protruded walls 31 a. The pair of protruded walls 31 a is provided on both ends of the first fastening surface 31 in the axial direction O1 (in the left-right direction in FIG. 6 (a)), respectively. Also, the pair of protruded walls 31 a is provided continuously in a protruded manner in a circumferential direction.

Further, both ends of the first pipe retaining section 11 (see FIG. 4 (b)) in the axial direction O1 (in the left-right direction in FIG. 6 (a)) comprise openings on both sides of the pipe retaining section.

The first fastening surface 31 has a recessed section 31 b. The recessed section 31 b is formed generally in a central portion of the first fastening surface 31. The recessed section 31 b is formed with a depth (depth from the first fastening surface 31 toward the outer peripheral surface side of the first part 30) that is uniform from the first fastening surface 31. Also, the recessed section 31 b has a generally right-angle channel shaped cross section as viewed along the axial direction O1 (a cross-sectional view taken along a line B-B in FIG. 6 (a) and FIG. 6 (b)). Furthermore, a pressure-insertion hole 31 c is formed generally in a central portion of the recessed section 31 b. The pressure-insertion hole 31 c penetrates the first part 30 through its outer peripheral surface side. Also, the pressure-insertion protrusion 62 a of the pipe sleeve 62 can be inserted in the pressure-insertion hole 31 c.

Here, in accordance with the present embodiment, the recessed section 31 b is formed to be in a generally rectangular shape in a front view, but may be formed in, for example, a generally rhombus shape or an oval shape, without any particular limitation to the above.

As shown in FIG. 6 (c) or FIG. 6 (d), the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 and the first fastening surface 31 face each other, and the pressure-insertion protrusion 62 a is pushed in the pressure-insertion hole 31 c, whereby the pipe sleeve 62 is attached to the first fastening surface 31. Also, as the pressure-insertion protrusion 62 a is inserted in the pressure-insertion hole 31 c, movements of the pipe sleeve 62 in the axial direction O1 (in the left-right direction in FIG. 6 (c)) and in the circumferential direction of the first fastening surface 31 (see FIG. 6 (d)) can be restricted.

The pipe sleeve 62 is formed such that a curved surface configuration of its outer peripheral surface conforms to the curved surface configuration of the first fastening surface 31. For this reason, by attaching the pipe sleeve 62 to the first fastening surface 31, the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 can be brought in contact with the first fastening surface 31. Also, a uniform space S surrounded by the recessed section 31 b formed in the first fastening surface 31 and the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 that faces the recessed section 31 b is formed between the first fastening surface 31 and the pipe sleeve 62.

The greater the area occupied by the recessed section 31 b in the first fastening surface 31, the smaller the contact surface between the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 and the first fastening surface 31. For this reason, for example, if the recessed section 31 b is formed entirely over the first fastening surface 31 in the circumferential direction (in the up-down direction in FIG. 6 (a): see FIG. 6 (d)), the contact surface between the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 and the first fastening surface 31 becomes smaller by the corresponding amount. Consequently, the pressure generated at the time of pinching and fixing the curved pipe 3 by the first pipe retaining section 11 (the force generated upon screwing the fastening member 51 which pushes the first part 30 toward the first fixing section 21) cannot be sufficiently transmitted to the curved pipe 3.

In contrast, in accordance with the present embodiment, the recessed section 31 b is formed generally in a central portion of the first fastening surface 31. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 and the first fastening surface 31 can be brought in contact with each other at two sides interposing the recessed section 31 b in the axial direction O1 (in the left-right direction in FIG. 6 (a)), and at two sides interposing the recessed section 31 b in the circumferential direction of the first fastening surface 31. Therefore, a wide contact area can be secured between the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 and the first fastening surface 31. Accordingly, the pressure generated at the time of pinching and fixing the curved pipe 3 by the first pipe retaining section 11 can be reliably transmitted to the curved pipe 3 through the pipe sleeve 62.

Further, when the pipe sleeve 62 is mounted on the first fastening surface 31, the pipe sleeve 62 is disposed between the pair of protruded walls 31 a. The tips of the protruded walls 31 a are formed lower than the inner peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62. For this reason, when fixing the curved pipe 3 to the first pipe retaining section 11, the inner peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 can be brought in contact with and abutted against the outer peripheral surface of the curved pipe 3, whereby the tips of the protruded walls 31 a can be prevented from contacting the curved pipe 3. This makes it possible to avoid deformation and damage to the curved pipe 3, which could result from the tips of the protruded walls 31 a if they push the curved pipe 3 by the pressure generated at the time of pinching and fixing the curved pipe 3 by the first pipe retaining section 11.

Also, when the pipe sleeve 62 is not mounted, if the clamp 10 is slidably moved along the curved pipe 3 in a state in which the curved pipe 3 is loosely inserted in the clamp 10, a large frictional force is generated at the contact surface between the curved pipe 3 made of metal and the first fastening surface 31 made of metal. The curved pipe 3 and the first fastening surface 31 are made of metal. Therefore, mutual contact between the curved pipe 3 and the first fastening surface 31 may cause scratches on the surfaces of the curved pipe 3 and the first fastening surface 31. This would make the surfaces of the curved pipe 3 and the first fastening surface 31 more readily bite into each other, which increases the frictional force generated when slidably moving the curved pipe 3. Accordingly, a greater force is required when slidably moving the curved pipe 3, and the slidable movement thereof generates noise.

In contrast, in accordance with the present embodiment, the pipe sleeve 62 made of a resin material is interposed between the curved pipe 3 and the first fastening surface 31. Therefore, when the clamp 10 is slidably moved along the curved pipe 3 in a state in which the curved pipe 3 is loosely inserted in the clamp 10, the surfaces of the curved pipe 3 and the first fastening surface 31 can be prevented from being scratched. Consequently, the frictional force generated when slidably moving the curved pipe 3 can be reduced. Therefore, the clamp 10 can be smoothly slidably moved. Further, generation of noise due to slidable movements of the clamp 10 and damage to the curved pipe 3 can be suppressed.

The present embodiment is described as to a case in which the pipe sleeve 62 is mounted to the first fastening surface 31 by pushing the pressure-insertion protrusion 62 a formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 into the pressure-insertion hole 31 c. However, without being limited to the above, the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve may be formed with a flat surface, and the outer peripheral surface can be bonded to the first fastening surface 31.

In this instance, the first fastening surface 31 is provided with the protruded walls 31 a in a protruded form, and the tips of the protruded walls 31 a are positioned higher than the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve to be abutted against the first fastening surface 31. Accordingly, even when the bonding between the first fastening surface 31 and the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve is released, the pipe sleeve is prevented from slipping out of the opening section of the first pipe retaining section 11 because of the protruded walls 31 a located at the opening of the first pipe retaining section 11.

It is noted that the first abutting surface 23 has protruded walls 23 a, a recessed section 23 b and a pressure-insertion hole 23 c, and their actions are similar to those of the first fastening surface 31. Accordingly, description thereof shall be omitted. Also, the second abutting surface 25 and the second fastening surface 41 are equipped with recessed sections 25 b and 41 b, respectively, and the recessed sections 25 b and 41 b are structured in a manner similar to the recessed section 31 b formed in the first fastening surface 31.

Next, referring to FIG. 7, a method of retaining and fixing the curved pipe 3 with the clamp 10 will be described. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the clamp 10 taken along a line VII-VII in FIG. 3 in a state in which the curved pipe 3 is retained.

When retaining the curved pipe 3 with the clamp 10, first, the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 is faced to the recessed section 23 b or the recessed section 31 b. Here, the recessed section 23 b is formed in the first abutting surface 23. Also, the recessed section 31 b is formed in the first fastening surface 31. In this state, the curved pipe 3 is disposed between the first fixing section 21 and the first part 30. In the present embodiment, the description will be made as to a case where the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 is disposed in a manner to face the recessed section 31 b formed in the first fastening surface 31.

Next, the curved pipe 3 is pinched and retained by the first abutting surface 23 of the first fixing section 21 and the first fastening surface 31 of the first part 30. In this state, the fastening member 51 that is rotatably supported about the bolt fixing section 24 of the first fixing section 21 is rotated. Then, the male screw section 51 a is inserted in the bolt insertion section 32 (see FIG. 4 (a) and FIG. 4 (b)).

Then, as described above, the threads of the female screw aperture 51 c 1 of the handle nut 51 c are engaged with the threads of the male screw section 51 a. Then the handle nut 51 c and the washer 51 d are moved in a screw-in direction (to the right direction in FIG. 7). By this, the first bolt insertion section 32 formed at the first part 30 is pushed against the handle nut 51 through the washer 51 d. Then, the first part 30 is pushed toward the first fixing section 21.

As the first part 30 is pushed toward the first fixing section 21, the pair of pipe sleeves 61 and 62 mounted on the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31 are brought in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the curved pipe 3. At this time, the outer peripheral surface of the curved pipe 3 on the side of the outwardly bent portion contacts the inner peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 (on the right side in FIG. 7) in a central portion of the pipe sleeve 62 mounted on the first fastening surface 31 along the longitudinal direction of the curved pipe 3. Then, the outer peripheral surface of the curved pipe 33 on the side of its inwardly bent portion contacts the inner peripheral surface (on the left side in FIG. 7) of the pipe sleeve 61 at the two end sides (the sides in the up-down direction in FIG. 7) of the pipe sleeve 61 mounted on the first abutting surface 23 in the longitudinal direction of the curved pipe 3.

At portions of the pipe sleeve 61 that are in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the curved pipe 3 on the inwardly bent side (the inner peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 at two end side portions in the longitudinal direction), the pipe sleeve 61 are in contact at its outer peripheral surface side with the first abutting surface 23. Therefore, the more the first part 30 is pressed against the first fixing section 21, the greater the pressure force from the first abutting surface 23 is transferred to the curved pipe 3 through the pipe sleeve 61. Accordingly, a greater force to push the curved pipe 3 toward the first fastening surface 31 (to the left side in FIG. 7) can be applied.

On the other hand, the recessed section 31 b is formed in the first fastening surface 31. Therefore, a portion of the pipe sleeve 62 that is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the curved pipe 3 on the outwardly bent side (the central portion of the curved pipe 3 in the longitudinal direction thereof) cannot contact the first fastening surface 31, and therefore the pressure force from the first fastening surface 31 cannot be transmitted thereto.

Therefore, as the first part 30 is pressed against the first fixing section 21, a portion of the pipe sleeve 62 where its outer peripheral surface is disposed opposite to the recessed section 31 b is pushed by the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3, thereby being pushed inside the space S. Accordingly, even when the pipe sleeve 62 is made of a resin material containing glass fibers which is hard to be deformed, the pipe sleeve 62 can be readily deformed according to the outwardly bent shape of the curved pipe 3. Therefore, a wider contact area can be secured between the pipe sleeve 62 and the curved pipe 3.

Also, when the pipe sleeve 62 is curved according to the outwardly bent shape of the curved pipe 3, the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 is in contact with the first fastening surface 31 on both sides (on the upper side and the lower side in FIG. 7) of the recessed section 31 b in the axial direction O1 (see FIG. 3). Therefore the pressure force generated through pushing the first part 30 toward the first fixing section 21 is transmitted from the surface where the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 is in contact with the first fastening surface 31 (the two end sides of the recessed section 31 b in the axial direction O1). Accordingly, the curved pipe 3 can be pushed toward the first fixing section 21 (to the right side in FIG. 7).

In this manner, the pressure force that pushes the first part 30 toward the first fixing section 21 is transmitted to the curved pipe 3 through the pipe sleeves 61 and 62. This allows the curved pipe 3 to be pinched and fixed by the first pipe retaining section 11. Also, the curved pipe 3 is retained through the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 made of a resin material. Therefore, a greater contact area with the curved pipe 3 can be secured, compared to a case where the curved pipe 3 is retained by bringing the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31 in direct contact with the curved pipe 3. Accordingly, the pressure to pinch and fix the curved pipe 3 can be more effectively transmitted to the curved pipe 3. In other words, the curved pipe 3 can be more securely retained.

Here, the fastening member 51 is structured to pinch and fix the curved pipe 3 in a manner that, as the handle nut 51 c is screwed into the male screw section 51 a, it pushes the first bolt insertion section 32 through the washer 51 d, whereby the first part 30 is pushed toward the first fixing section 21. Accordingly, the pressure force to pinch and fix the curved pipe 3 is applied in a direction along an axial direction (the left-right direction in FIG. 7) of the male screw section 51 a.

On the other hand, the recessed sections 23 b and 31 b open in a direction along the axial direction of the male screw section 51 a. For this reason, as the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 that is in a curved configuration is disposed in a manner to face either the recessed section 23 b or 31 b, the pressure force generated through screwing in the handle nut 51 c can be used effectively as a pressure force to allow the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 to push the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 into the space S. Accordingly, the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 can be made more deformable. Therefore, a greater contact area can be secured between the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 and the curved pipe 3. Thus the curved pipe 3 can be more reliably pinched and fixedly retained.

Furthermore, the pressure-insertion holes 23 c and 31 c are formed penetrating in the axial direction of the male screw section 51 a. For this reason, as the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 that is in a curved configuration is disposed in a manner to face either the recessed section 23 b or 31 b, the pressure force for pinching and fixing the curved pipe 3 can be used effectively as a pressure force to allow the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 to push the pressure-insertion protrusions 61 a and 62 a in the pressure-insertion holes 23 c and 31 c. Accordingly, the fixed state in which the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 are pressed against the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31 can be prevented from being released.

When the recessed section 23 b or 31 b is formed, in the axial direction O1, at one end (for example on the upper side in FIG. 7) of the first abutting surface 23 or the first fastening surface 31 or at both ends (the upper side and the lower side in FIG. 7) thereof, the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 or 62 has one contact surface with the first abutting surface 23 or the first fastening surface 31.

In contrast, in accordance with the present embodiment, each of the recessed sections 23 b and 31 b is formed generally in the central area of each of the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31. For this reason, the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 or 62 and the first abutting surface 23 or the first fastening surface 31 can be brought in contact with each other at two surfaces on one side and the other side (on the upper side and the lower side in FIG. 7) interposing the recessed section 23 b or 31 b, respectively. Therefore the pressure force to pinch and fixedly retain the curved pipe 3 can be more reliably transmitted to the curved pipe 3.

If the recessed section 23 b or 31 b is provided in only one of the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31, and if the clamp 10 that pinches and fixes the curved pipe 3 with the outwardly bent portion thereof being disposed opposite to the recessed section 23 b or 31 b is rotated through 180 degrees about the curved pipe 3 as an axis, the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 cannot be disposed opposite to the recessed section 23 b or 31 b. For this reason, in order to secure the retaining force on the curved pipe 3, the clamp currently in use needs to be changed with a clamp with different arrangement of the recessed section 23 b or 31 b.

In contrast, in the clamp 10 in accordance with the present embodiment, the recessed sections 23 b and 31 b are formed in both of the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31, respectively. For this reason, even when the clamp 10 that pinches and fixes the curved pipe 3 with the outwardly bent portion thereof being disposed opposite to the recessed section 23 b or 31 b is rotated through half a full rotation about the curved pipe 3 as an axis, the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 can be disposed opposite to recessed section 23 b or 31 b, whereby the work efficiency can be improved.

In other words, it is possible to select between two methods, i.e., the method of disposing the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 opposite to the recessed section 23 b, and the method of disposing the same to orient in a direction in which the recessed section 31 b is located. Accordingly, there are many possible orientations of the clamp 10 at the time of retaining the pipe.

Further, when the recessed sections 23 b and 31 b are recessed in an arc shape in a cross section as viewed along the axial direction O1 (in a cross-sectional view taken along a line B-B in FIG. 6 (a) and FIG. 6 (b)), and if the R (radius) of each of the recessed sections 23 b and 31 b formed in an arc shape does not match with the R of the curved pipe 3 to be retained, a sufficient contact area cannot be secured between the pipe sleeve 61 or 62 and the curved pipe 3.

In contrast, in accordance with the described embodiment, the recessed sections 23 b and 31 b have a constant depth from the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31, respectively, and are provided in a generally right angled channel shape in a cross-sectional view as viewed along the axial direction O1. For this reason, the space S can secure a greater volume. Accordingly, the curved pipe 3 in a curved configuration whose radius is set within a predetermined range can be reliably retained.

Also, as described above, the tips of the protruded walls 23 a are at a lower position than the inner peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61. For this reason, when the curved pipe 3 in a curved configuration is to be retained at the side of its inwardly bent portion (on the right side in FIG. 7), the tips of the protruded walls 23 a and the curved pipe 3 can be prevented from contacting each other. Accordingly, this makes it possible to suppress deformation and damage to the curved pipe 3, which could result from the tips of the protruded walls 31 a if they push the curved pipe 3 by the pressure generated at the time of holding and fixing the curved pipe 3. In particular, in accordance with the present embodiment, the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 are made of reinforced plastic compounded with glass fibers that has a Young's modulus higher than that of resins such as rubber and the like. Therefore, a high degree of deformation-resisting property against pressures generated at the time of holding and fixing the curved pipe 3 is secured. Therefore, even when the difference in height between the inner peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 and the tips of the protruded walls 23 a is small, contacts between the tips of the protruded walls 23 a and the curved pipe 3 can be effectively suppressed.

Next, referring to FIGS. 8 through 10, the structure of the pipe holder 100 in accordance with the second embodiment will be described. The first embodiment has been described as to a case where the curved pipe 3 in a curved configuration is retained by the first fixing section 21 and the first part 30, and the pipe 4 that supports musical instruments is supported by the second fixing section 22 and the second part 40. In accordance with the second embodiment, the upstanding pipe 2 in a linear shape that stands upright on the ground is retained by the first fixing section 21 and the first part 30, and a container pipe 3 a that contains connector cables 5 is retained by a second fixing section 122 and a second part 140. It is noted that components that are the same as those of the first embodiment described above will be appended with the same reference numbers, and their description will be omitted.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the pipe holder 100 in accordance with the second embodiment. FIG. 9 (a) is a top side view of the pipe holder 100. FIG. 9 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the pipe holder 100 taken along a line IXb-IXb in FIG. 9 (a) in a state retaining a vertical upstanding pipe 2. FIG. 10 (a) is a cross-sectional view of the pipe holder 100 taken along a line Xa-Xa in FIG. 9 (a). FIG. 10 (b) is a side view of the pipe holder 100 in a state in which a second part 140 is opened. It is noted that FIG. 10 (b) omits illustration of a fastening member 152.

As shown in FIG. 8, the pipe holder 100 is a member that connects an upstanding pipe 2 and a container pipe 3 a. Further, the pipe holder 100 is a member that guides a connection cable 5 stored in the container pipe 3 a to the outside. The pipe holder 100 has a first pipe retaining section 11, a second pipe retaining section 112 and a coupling section 113. The first pipe retaining section 11 retains the upstanding pipe 2. The second pipe retaining section 112 retains the container pipe 3 a that contains the connection cable 5. The coupling section 113 connects the first pipe retaining section 11 and the second pipe retaining section 112. A cable sleeve 180 composed of an elastic material is fitted in the coupling section 113.

The container pipe 3 a is a tubular member that contains the connection cable 5 therein among plural curved pipes 3 to be used for the musical instrument stand 1 (see FIG. 1). Also, the connection cable 5 is a member that electrically connects electronic musical instruments such as electronic drums and electronic cymbals with equipments such as a sound generator and the like.

As shown in FIG. 9 (a), for retaining the upstanding pipe 2 by the first pipe retaining section 11, the pressure force that pushes the first part 30 against the first fixing section 21 is transmitted to the upstanding pipe 2 through the pipe sleeves 61 and 62. This holds and fixedly retains the upstanding pipe 2. As described above, recessed sections 23 b and 31 b are formed in the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31, respectively, generally in central portions thereof, in other words, in portions thereof in their circumferential direction (see FIG. 6 (a)). Accordingly, for example, a wider contact area can be secured between the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 62 and the first fastening surface 31, compared to a case where the recessed section 23 b or 31 b is formed entirely along the circumferential direction of the first abutting surface 23 or the first fastening surface 31. Also, each of the pipe sleeves 61 and 62 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape (see FIG. 5 (a)). Accordingly, the pressure generated at the time of pinching and fixing by the first pipe retaining section 11 can be reliably transmitted to the upstanding pipe 2 in a linear shape through the pipe sleeves 61 and 62.

As shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 10, the second pipe retaining section 112 is a portion that retains the container pipe 3 a. The second pipe retaining section 112 is primarily equipped with a second fixing section 122, a second part 140, a fastening member 152 and a second retaining chamber 112 a (see FIG. 9 (b)). The second fixing section 122 is formed on the other side (on the frontward side in FIG. 10 (a)) of a base section 120 that is a part of the pipe holder 100. The second part 140 is a part of the pipe holder 100 and is rotatably supported on its axis on one end side (on the upper side in FIG. 10 (a)) of the second fixing section 122. The fastening member 152 tightens and fixes the second part 140 to the second fixing section 122. The second retaining chamber 112 a is surrounded by the second fixing section 122 and the second part 140 (see FIG. 9 (b)).

As shown in FIG. 9 (b) or FIG. 10, the second fixing section 122 is formed on the other side (on the left side in FIG. 9 (b)) of the base section 120. Further, the second fixing section 122 is a portion that forms one of the sides (the left side in FIG. 10 (a)) of the second pipe retaining section 112. The second fixing section 122 is primarily equipped with a second abutting surface 125 and a nut stopper section 126. The second abutting surface 125 is formed in an arc shape as viewed in an axial direction O3 that is an axis of the second pipe retaining section 112 (in a direction along a line connecting between the first pipe retaining section 11 and the second pipe retaining section 112; in the left-right direction in FIG. 9 (b)). The nut stopper section 126 is formed on the other end side of the second fixing section 122 (on the lower side in FIG. 9 (b)). The nut stopper section 126 is provided with a through-hole formed therein through which a shaft section 152 a 1 of the fastening member 152 to be described below can be passed.

The second abutting surface 125 forms one of the sides of the inner peripheral surface of the second pipe retaining section 112 (the left side in FIG. 10 (a)). Further, the second abutting surface 125 is a portion that retains one of the sides of the container pipe 3 a. The second abutting surface 125 is formed with a recessed section 125 b. Further, the recessed section 125 b is provided, generally in a central portion thereof, with a protrusion 125 a that can be fitted in an aperture (not shown) that is formed in the container pipe 3 a penetrating therein.

The second part 140 is a part that forms the other side (the right side in the FIG. 10 (a)) of the second pipe retaining section 112. The second part 140 has a second fastening surface 141 and a bolt stopper section 142. The second fastening surface 141 is formed in an arc shape as viewed in the axial direction O3. The bolt stopper section 142 is formed on the other side (the lower side in FIG. 10 (a)) of the second fixing section 122. Further, the bolt stopper section 142 is provided with a through-hole through which the shaft section 152 a 1 of the fastening member 152 to be described below can be passed. Further, the second part 140 is rotatably supported on its axis on the one end side of the second fixing section 122 (on the upper side in the FIG. 10 (b)), while keeping the second fastening surface 141 to be opposite to the second abutting surface 125 of the second fixing section 122. The second fastening surface 141 forms the other side of the inner peripheral surface of the second pipe retaining section 112 (the right side in FIG. 10 (a)). Further, the second fastening surface 141 is a portion that retains the other side of the container pipe 3 a.

The fastening member 152 is a member for pressing the second part 140 toward the second fixing section 122 when pinching and fixing the container pipe 3 a held between the second abutting surface 25 and the second fastening surface 141. The fastening member 152 has a bolt section 152 a and a nut section 152 b. The bolt section 152 a has a shaft section 152 a 1 and a head section 152 a 2. Male threads are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft section 152 a 1. The head section 152 a 2 can be fitted in the bolt stopper section 142. The nut section 152 b threads can be engaged with the threads of the shaft section 152 a 1.

For holding and fixing the container pipe 3 a with the second pipe retaining section 112, first, the shaft section 152 a 1 is passed through the holes formed in the second fixing section 122 and the second part 140 from the side of the bolt stopper section 142. The nut section 152 b threads are engaged with the threads of the tip portion of the shaft section 152 a 1 that is passed from the side of the bolt stopper section 142 to the side of the nut stopper section 126. By this, the head section 152 a 2 is stopped at the bolt stopper section 142. Further the nut section 152 b is stopped at the nut stopper section 126. Accordingly, the second part 140 is tightened and fixed toward the second fixing section 122. By this, the second part 140 is pushed toward the second fixing section 122. This enables the container pipe 3 a to be held and fixed between the second fixing section 122 and the second part 140.

As shown in FIG. 9 (b) and FIG. 10 (b), the coupling section 113 is a portion that connects the first pipe retaining section 11 and the second pipe retaining section 112. Further, the coupling section 113 has a guide groove section 171, a pair of guide extension sections 172 and a guide chamber 113 a.

The guide groove section 171 is provided in a manner to extend from the second fixing section 122 in the axial direction O3 (to the right side in FIG. 9 (b)). Further, the guide groove section 171 is a portion that is provided in a manner connected to the first fixing section 21. The guide groove section 171 has a guide groove wall 171 a. The guide groove wall 171 a is formed with a cylindrical inner peripheral surface on the same surface with the second abutting surface 125.

The pair of guide extension sections 172 extends from both ends of the guide groove section 171 that is oriented in the same direction (the right direction in FIG. 10 (a)) as that of the guide groove wall 171 a. The guide extension sections 172 are separated by a gap in which a first sleeve section 181 of a cable sleeve 180 to be described below can be inserted. Also, the pair of guide extension sections 172 has a pair of guide extension walls 172 a. The pair of guide extension walls 172 a are formed on the same surface with the guide groove wall 171 a. The guide groove wall 171 a and the pair of guide extension walls 172 a are formed in a generally U-letter shape as viewed from the side.

The guide chamber 113 a is a space that is surrounded by the guide groove wall 171 a and the guide extension walls 172 a. The guide chamber 113 a is closed by a first close wall 121 a on its one end side (the right side in FIG. 9 (b)) in the axial direction O3. The first close wall 121 a is formed in a plane surface perpendicular to the guide groove wall 171 a and the guide extension walls 172 a. Also, the guide chamber 113 a has the other end in the axial direction O3 (on the left side in FIG. 9 (b)) connected to a second retaining chamber 112 a. Further, the guide chamber 113 a is closed partially by a second close wall 140 a. The second close wall 140 a forms an external surface of the second part 140, and faces the first close wall 121 a (see FIG. 8).

The first close wall 121 a is a plane shaped portion that is formed oriented in an opposite direction of the first abutting surface 23 formed in the first fixing section 21. A pressure-insertion hole 23 c that is formed in the first abutting surface 23 penetrates the first close wall 121 a. For this reason, a tip of the pressure-insertion protrusion 61 a of the pipe sleeve 61 mounted on the first abutting surface 23 protrudes from the first close wall 121 a into the guide chamber 113 a.

The cable sleeve 180 is a member made of an elastic member. As shown in FIG. 8, the cable sleeve 180 is fitted inside a guide opening section 113 b. The guide opening section 113 b is formed by the guide extension wall 172 a, the first close wall 121 a and the second close wall 140 a. Further, the guide opening section 113 b is formed in a generally rectangular shape that opens the guide chamber 113 a to the outside.

Next, referring to FIG. 11, a detailed structure of the cable sleeve 180 will be described. FIG. 11 (a) is a front view of the cable sleeve 180. FIG. 11 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the cable sleeve 180 taken along a line XIb-XIb in FIG. 11 (a). FIG. 11 (c) is a cross-sectional view of the cable sleeve 180 taken along a line XIc-XIc in FIG. 11 (a). FIG. 11 (d) is a front view of the cable sleeve 180 in a state in which a slit 183 with a cut width W1 is opened wider.

As shown in FIG. 11 (a), the cable sleeve 180 has a first sleeve section 181 and a second sleeve section 182. The first sleeve section 181 is formed in a rectangular cylindrical shape that can be fitted inside the guide opening section 113 b. The second sleeve section 182 connects to a side surface of the first sleeve section 181 on one of the sides thereof. The second sleeve section 182 is formed in a cylindrical shape that can be fitted inside the container pipe 3 a.

As shown in FIG. 11 (b) and FIG. 11 (c), the first sleeve section 181 is formed in a rectangular cylindrical shape. The first sleeve section 181 has a first opening section 181 a, a first hole section 181 b, and a second hole section 181 c. The first opening section 181 a opens on one end of the first sleeve section 181. The first hole section 181 b opens in a side surface of the first sleeve section 181 on one of the sides thereof (the right side in FIG. 11 (c)). The first hole section 181 b is formed in a circular shape having a diameter equal to or greater than the inner diameter of the inner peripheral surface of the second sleeve section 182. The second hole section 181 c is opened in a side surface on the other side (the left side in FIG. 11 (c)). The second hole section 181 c is formed in a rectangular shape in which the pressure-insertion protrusion 61 a can be fitted.

The second sleeve section 182 has a second opening section 182 a. The second sleeve section 182 connects at its another end (the left side in FIG. 11 (c)) to the side surface of the first sleeve section 181 on one side thereof at a position corresponding to the first hole section 181 b. The second opening section 182 a opens in a direction perpendicular to the first opening section 181 a at one end of the second sleeve section 182 (on the right side in FIG. 11 (c)). As the first opening section 181 a and the second opening section 182 a are connected to each other, the connection cable 5 can be inserted from one of the first opening section 181 a and the second opening section 182 a, and passed to the other.

Also, as shown in FIG. 11 (a), the cable sleeve 180 has a slit 183. The slit 183 is cut from the first opening section 181 a through the side surface on one of the sides of the first sleeve section 181 to the second opening section 182 a. Further, the slit 183 is formed such that its cut width W1 is smaller than the outer diameter of the connection cable 5.

Also, the cable sleeve 180 is made of an elastic member. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 11 (d), by applying a force in two directions (the up-down direction in FIG. 11 (d)) perpendicular to the cut direction of the slit 183, the cut width W1 of the slit 183 can be opened wider. Also, by releasing the force being applied to the cable sleeve 180 in the state in which the cut width W1 of the slit 183 is opened, the cut width W1 can be returned to the original state due to the elastic force of the cable sleeve 180.

The slit 183 may only require to be cut from the first opening section 181 a through the side surface of the first sleeve section 181 on one of the sides thereof to the second opening section 182 a, and the cut width W1 does not necessarily require to have a predetermined length.

Next, referring to FIG. 12, a method of holding and fixing the container pipe 3 a by the second pipe retaining section 112 will be described. FIG. 12 (a) is an exploded perspective view of the pipe holder 100 and the container pipe 3 a in a state in which the upstanding pipe 2 is retained. FIG. 12 (b) is a front view of the container pipe 3 a and the pipe holder 100 in a state in which the second part 140 is opened.

As shown in FIG. 12 (a), for holding and fixing the container pipe 3 a with the second pipe retaining section 112, first, the connection cable 5 that is contained in the container pipe 3 a is contained inside the cable sleeve 180. In this state, the second sleeve section 182 is fitted inside the container pipe 3 a on one end side thereof.

If the cable sleeve 180 were not equipped with the slit 183, it would be necessary that one end of the connection cable 5 is inserted in the second opening section 182 a and passed through the first opening section 181 a, when the connection cable 5 is to be contained inside the cable sleeve 180. Moreover, the connector cable 5 placed inside the cable sleeve 180 needs to be tugged in by a necessary length, at one end of the connector cable 5 passed inside the cable sleeve 180. For this reason, in particular, when the connector cable 5 is long, the work efficiency lowers.

In contrast, in accordance with the present embodiments, the connector cable 5 can be placed at its intermediate portion inside the cable sleeve 180 through the slit 183 while widening the cut width W1 of the slit 183 in the cable sleeve 180 (see FIG. 11 (d)). Accordingly, the work can be efficiently performed irrespective of the length of the connector cable 5 to be guided from the container pipe 3 a to the outside.

Further, as shown in FIG. 12 (b), the cut width W1 of the slit 183 is smaller than the outer diameter of the connector cable 5. For this reason, the connector cable 5 contained inside the cable sleeve 180 can be prevented from slipping out through the slit 183. Accordingly, when the cable sleeve 180 is fitted inside the guide opening section 113 b, the connector cable 5 contained inside the cable sleeve 180 can be prevented from slipping out through the slit 183 and being damaged by the guide opening section 113 b that may come in contact with the connector cable 5.

Also, the cable sleeve 180 has the second sleeve section 182 that can be fitted inside the container pipe 3 a. By fitting the second sleeve section 182 inside the container pipe 3 a at one end section thereof, the connection cable 5 can be prevented from directly contacting the end section of the container pipe 3 a. Therefore, even when the end section of the container pipe 3 a has burs or the like, the connection cable 5 can be prevented from being damaged.

Further, when the connector cable 5 is pulled at the time of adjusting the position of the pipe holder 100 for changing the coupled position of the upstanding pipe 2 or the container pipe 3 a, a force in a direction different from the direction in which the connector cable 5 is pulled is applied to a portion of the connector cable 5 that is in contact with the guide opening section 113 b. The guide opening section 113 b is made of metal, such that the connector cable 5 could readily be damaged by the force concentrated on the portion of the connector cable 5 that is in contact with the guide opening section 113 b.

In contrast, in accordance with the present embodiment, the connection cable 5 can be guided through the second opening section 182 a opened at one end of the second sleeve section 182 into the interior of the cable sleeve 180 and to the first opening section 181 a. Therefore, the guide opening section 113 b made of metal and the connection cable 5 can be prevented from directly contacting each other. Therefore, the force concentrating on one portion of the connection cable 5 can be reduced, whereby damage to the connection cable 5 can be avoided.

Next, the container pipe 3 a fitted with the cable sleeve 180 is fitted to a protrusion 125 a provided in a convex shape in the second abutting surface 125. By this, the container pipe 3 a can be disposed at an appropriate position. Further, by fitting the container pipe 3 a to the protrusion 125 a, the container pipe 3 a can be retained by the protrusion 125 a. By this, the work efficiency in holding and fixing the container pipe 3 a by the second pipe retaining section 112 can be improved.

Also, when the container pipe 3 a is fitted to the protrusion 125 a, the first sleeve section 181 of the cable sleeve 180 that is fitted in the container pipe 3 a can be inserted in the guide chamber 113 a at the same time. Therefore, the work of fitting the container pipe 3 a to the protrusion 125 a, and the work for suitably inserting the cable sleeve 180 in the guide chamber 113 a can be simultaneously performed. As a result, the work efficiency can be improved accordingly.

Further, when the first sleeve section 181 is inserted in the guide chamber 113 a, the tip portion of the pressure-insertion protrusion 61 a that protrudes from the first close wall 121 a is fitted in the second hole section 181 c opened in the other side surface of the cable sleeve 180 (see FIG. 9 (b)). Therefore, the cable sleeve 180 can be disposed at an appropriate position of the guide chamber 113 a. Furthermore, the container pipe 3 a can be more stably retained by the protrusion 125 a.

Lastly, the second part 140 is fastened and fixed to the second fixing section 122 by the fastening member 152. By this, the container pipe 3 a can be held and fixed by the second pipe retaining section 112. Also, by tightening and fixing the second part 140 to the second fixing section 122, the second close wall 140 a is disposed at a position opposite to the first close wall 121 a. By this, the guide opening section 113 b that is in a generally rectangular shape in a front view can be formed.

It is noted that the guide opening section 113 b is formed in a generally rectangular shape, as viewed from the front, with short-sides extending in the axial direction O3 (in a direction along a line connecting the first pipe retaining section 11 and the second pipe retaining section 112; see FIG. 9 (b)). By this, the distance between the first retaining section 11 and the second retaining section 112 can be made shorter, compared to a case where, for example, the shape of the guide opening section 113 b is in a generally circular shape as viewed from the front, or a generally rectangular shape, as viewed from the front, with long-sides extending in the axial direction O3. Therefore, the coupling section 113 can be made smaller. By this, the overall size of the pipe holder 100 can be reduced, and the pipe holder 100 can be made lighter in weight, accordingly.

Moreover, when two pipe holders 100 are brought closer to each other and mounted on the upstanding pipe 2, if the guide opening section 113 b opens in a direction along the axial direction O1 (in the longitudinal direction of the first pipe, in the up-down direction in FIG. 12 (b), see FIG. 9 (b)), the connection cable 5 is guided between the two pipe holders 100 that are mounted close to each other. Therefore, when the pipe holder 100 is rotationally moved about the upstanding pipe 2 as an axis, there is a danger that the connection cable 5 may be pinched and snapped off by the two pipe holders 100.

In contrast, in accordance with the present embodiment, the guide opening section 113 b opens toward the front side of the pipe holder 100 (in the forward side of FIG. 12 (b)). Accordingly, the danger described above can be avoided.

In this manner, the present embodiment has the coupling section 113 that connects the first pipe retaining section 11 and the second pipe retaining section 112. By this, fixing the upstanding pipe 2 to the first pipe retaining section 11 and releasing them from the fixed state, or fixing the container pipe 3 a to the second pipe retaining section 112 and releasing them from the fixed state can be conducted independently from each other.

Therefore, when the coupled position of only one of the upstanding pipe 2 and the container pipe 3 a is to be changed, while maintaining the other of the upstanding pipe 2 and the container pipe 3 a respectively on the first pipe retaining section 11 and the second pipe retaining section 112 to be fixed, the fixed state of the one of the upstanding pipe 2 and the container pipe 3 a respectively on the first pipe retaining section 11 and the second pipe retaining section 112 can be released, whereby the coupled position of only one of the upstanding pipe 2 and the container pipe 3 a can be changed. By this, the work efficiency in adjusting the position of the upstanding pipe 2 and the container pipe 3 a can be improved.

The guide chamber 113 a is formed in the coupling section 113. By this, the coupled position of the upstanding pipe 2 or the container pipe 3 a can be adjusted while the connection cable 5 is kept to be contained in the guide chamber 113 a. Accordingly, the connection cable 5 does not need to be positioned each time the position of the upstanding pipe 2 or the container pipe 3 a is adjusted. Therefore, the work efficiency can be improved.

Furthermore, without regard to fixing the upstanding pipe 2 by the first pipe retaining section 11 and releasing them from the fixed state, and without regard to fixing the container pipe 3 a by the second pipe retaining section 112 and releasing them from the fixed state, the volume occupied by the guide chamber 113 a can be maintained constant. Therefore, when the upstanding pipe 2 or the container pipe 3 a is held and fixed by the first pipe retaining section 11 or the second pipe retaining section 112, respectively, the connection cable 5 can be prevented from being pinched and damaged by the first pipe retaining section 11 or the second pipe retaining section 112.

Next, referring to FIG. 13, a clamp 210 in accordance with a third embodiment will be described. The first embodiment is described as to a case in which the recessed section 23 b is formed generally in a central portion of the first abutting surface 23. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, recessed sections 223 b are formed on two sides of a first abutting surface 223 in the axial direction O1. It is noted that portions that are the same as those of the first embodiment described above shall be appended with the same reference numbers, and their description shall be omitted.

FIG. 13 (a) is a rear side surface of a first fixing section 221 in accordance with the third embodiment. FIG. 13 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the first fixing section 221 taken along a line XIIIb-XIIIb in FIG. 13 (a). FIG. 13 (c) is a cross-sectional view of the first fixing section 221 when the pipe sleeve 61 is mounted, and is a view corresponding to FIG. 13 (b).

As shown in FIG. 13 (a) and FIG. 13 (b), the first abutting surface 223 has recessed sections 223 b. Each of the recessed sections 223 b is formed with a constant depth from the first abutting surface 223. Also, each of the recessed sections 223 b is in a generally right-angled channel shape in a cross section along the axial direction O1 (in a cross section taken along a line C-C in FIG. 13 (a) and FIG. 13 (b)). Furthermore, the recessed sections 223 b are formed on both sides of the first abutting surface 223 in the axial direction O1.

As shown in FIG. 13 (c), the pipe sleeve 6 is fitted as follows. The outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 is placed opposite to the first abutting surface 223, and a pressure-insertion protrusion 61 a formed in a convex shape protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 is pushed in a pressure-insertion hole 223 c formed in the first abutting surface 223. By this, the pipe sleeve 61 is mounted on the first abutting surface 223.

The pipe sleeve 61 has a curved surface configuration on its outer peripheral surface that conforms to the curved surface configuration of the first abutting surface 223. Therefore, by mounting the pipe sleeve 61 on the first abutting surface 223, the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 comes in contact with the first abutting surface 223. Also, between the first abutting surface 223 and the pipe sleeve 61, there are formed two constant spaces S surrounded by two recessed sections 223 b and the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve disposed opposite to the two recessed sections 223 b, respectively.

When the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 is disposed opposite to the recessed section 31 b formed in the first fastening surface 31 (see FIG. 7), the outer peripheral surface of the curved pipe 3 on the side of its inwardly bent portion is brought in contact with the inner peripheral surface side of the pipe sleeve 61 in portions on both end sides of the pipe sleeve 61 mounted on the first abutting surface 223 in the longitudinal direction of the curved pipe 3.

Here, the recessed sections 223 b are formed on both end sides of the first abutting surface 223 in the axial direction O1 (in the left-right direction in FIG. 13 (a); see FIG. 4). By this, portions of the pipe sleeve 61 whose inner peripheral surface side is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the curved pipe 3 on its inwardly bent portion side cannot contact the first abutting surface 223 (at both end portions thereof in the longitudinal direction of the curved pipe 3). Therefore the pressure force from the first abutting surface 223 cannot be transmitted thereto.

Therefore, as the first part 30 (see FIG. 7) is pressed against the first fixing section 221, portions of the pipe sleeve 61 where its outer peripheral surface is disposed opposite to the recessed sections 223 b are pushed by the inwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3, thereby being pushed inside the spaces S. Accordingly, even when the pipe sleeve 61 is made of a resin material containing glass fibers which is hard to be deformed, the pipe sleeve 61 can be readily deformed according to the inwardly bent shape of the curved pipe 3. Therefore, a wider contact area can be secured between the pipe sleeve 61 and the curved pipe 3.

Also, when the pipe sleeve 61 is bent according to the shape of the inwardly bent portion of the curved pipe, the first abutting surface 223 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 at both end sides of a portion among the first abutting surface 223 located between the pair of recessed sections 223 b in the axial direction O1 (on the left side and the right side in FIG. 13 (a)).

Therefore, the pressure force caused by pressing the first part 30 toward the first fixing section 221 is transmitted from the surface where the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 is in contact with the first abutting surface 223 (at the both end sides of the portion among the first abutting surface 223 located between the pair of recessed sections 223 b in the axial direction O1). Accordingly, the curved pipe 3 can be pushed toward the first fixing section 221.

Next, referring to FIG. 14, a clamp 310 in accordance with a fourth embodiment will be described. The first embodiment has been described as to a case where the recessed sections 23 b, 31 b are formed in the first abutting surface 23 and the first fastening surface 31, respectively. In accordance with the fourth embodiment, recessed sections 323 b and 331 b are formed on the outer peripheral surfaces of pipe sleeves 362 and 362, respectively. It is noted that components that are the same as those of the first embodiment described above will be appended with the same reference numbers, and their description will be omitted.

FIG. 14 (a) is a rear side view of a pipe sleeve 362 in accordance with the fourth embodiment. FIG. 14 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the pipe sleeve 362 taken along a line XIVb-XIVb in FIG. 14 (a). FIG. 14 (c) is a rear side view of a first part 330 in a state in which the pipe sleeve 362 is mounted. FIG. 14 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the first part 330 taken along a line XIVd-XIVd in FIG. 14 (c). The first abutting surface 323 has the same configuration as that of the first fastening surface 331, and therefore its description is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 14 (a) and FIG. 14 (b), the pipe sleeve 362 has a recessed section 331 b. The recessed section 331 b is formed in the outer peripheral surface generally in a central portion thereof with a constant depth from the outer peripheral surface. Also, the recessed section 331 b is in a generally right angled channel shape in a side cross-sectional view (in a cross-sectional view taken along a line D-D of FIG. 14 (a) and FIG. 14 (b)).

As shown in FIG. 14 (c) and FIG. 14 (d), the first fastening surface 331 is formed in an arc shape with a smooth concave surface, and has protruded walls 331 a and a pressure-insertion hole 331 c.

The pipe sleeve 362 is formed in a manner that its outer peripheral surface has a curved surface configuration that conforms to the curved surface configuration of the first fastening surface 331. Therefore, by attaching the pipe sleeve 362 to the first fastening surface 331, the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 362 and the first fastening surface 331 are brought in contact with each other. Also, between the first fastening surface 331 and the pipe sleeve 362, a constant space S surrounded by the recessed section 331 b formed in the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 362 and the first fastening surface 331 disposed opposite to the recessed section 331 b is formed.

The recessed section 331 b is formed in the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 362. Therefore, when the curved pipe 3 is retained by disposing the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 in a manner to face the recessed section 331 b formed in the pipe sleeve 362 (see FIG. 7), the pipe sleeve 361 that is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the curved pipe 3 on its outwardly bent portion side cannot contact the first fastening surface 331 in a portion thereof (a central portion of the curved pipe 3 in the longitudinal direction). For this reason, the pressure force from the first fastening surface 331 cannot be transmitted.

Accordingly, as the first part 330 is pressed against the first fixing section 321, the portion of the pipe sleeve 362 where the recessed section 331 b is formed in its outer peripheral surface is pushed by the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3, thereby being pushed inside the space S. Accordingly, even when the pipe sleeve 362 is made of a resin material containing glass fibers which is normally hard to be deformed, the pipe sleeve 362 can be readily deformed according to the outwardly bent shape of the curved pipe 3. Therefore, a wider contact area can be secured between the pipe sleeve 362 and the curved pipe 3.

The invention has been described above based on each of the embodiments, but the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and it can be readily understood that many improvements and modifications can be made within the range that does not depart from the subject matter of the invention.

For example, in each of the embodiments described above, the recessed sections (23 b, 31 b 223 b, 323 b, 331 b) are formed in both of the first abutting surface (23, 223, 323) and the first fastening surface (31, 331). However, without being limited to the above, the recessed section (23 b, 31 b 223 b, 323 b, 331 b) may be formed in either the first abutting surface (23, 223, 323) or the first fastening surface (31, 331). In this way, the manufacturing cost for the clamp 10, 210 or 310 or the pipe holder 100 can be reduced.

Also, in the first embodiment through the third embodiment described above, the recessed section (23 b, 31 b, 223 b) is formed in a uniform depth from the first abutting surface (23, 223) or from the first fastening surface 31, and has a generally right angled channel shape in a cross-sectional view along the axial direction O1. However, the invention may not necessarily be limited to the above. The recessed section (23 b, 31 b, 223 b) may be formed in a generally arc shape or a tapered shape in a cross-sectional view along the axial direction O1. If the recessed section (23 b, 31 b, 223 b) is provided in a concaved generally arc shape in a cross-sectional view along the axial direction O1, and when the curved pipe 3 to be retained by the recessed section (23 b, 31 b, 223 b) is set to have a predetermined radius R, a wider contact area can be secured between the curved pipe 3 and the inner peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve 61 or 62 by matching the radius R of the curved pipe 3 with the recessed section (23 b, 31 b, 223 b).

Furthermore, in each of the embodiments described above, the first abutting surface (23, 223, 323) and the first fastening surface (31, 331) is described as having a pair of protruded walls (23 a, 31, 223 a, 323 a, 331 a) that are provided in a protruded shape continuously in a circumferential direction on both ends thereof in the axial direction O1. However, the invention is not necessarily limited to the above. Both ends of the abutting surface (23, 223, 323) and the first fastening surface (31, 331) in the axial direction O1 may be formed in a flat surface. By this, the manufacturing cost for the clamps 10, 210 and 310 or the pipe holder 100 can be reduced.

Also, in each of the embodiments described above, when the recessed section (23 b, 31 b, 223 b, 323 b and 331 b) is viewed in the axial direction O1, the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve (61, 62, 361, 362) and the first fastening surface (31, 331) are described as being in contact with each other on both sides of the recessed section (23 b, 31 b, 223 b, 323 b, 331 b) in the first abutting surface (23, 223, 323) or the first fastening surface (31, 331) in their circumferential direction. However, the invention is not necessarily limited to the above. As viewed in the axial direction O1, the recessed section (23 b, 31 b, 223 b, 323 b, 331 b) may be formed entirely along the circumferential direction of the first abutting surface (23, 223, 232) or the first fastening surface (31, 331). By this, when the arrangement of musical instruments is changed according to the preference of a performer, and the clamps (10, 210, 310) are rotationally moved about the curved pipe 3 as an axis, the outwardly bent portion of the curved pipe 3 can be disposed opposite to the recessed section (23 b, 31 b, 223 b, 323 b, 331 b). Therefore, the arrangement positions of the musical instruments can be freely changed while keeping the state in which the curved pipes 3 can be reliably fixed with the clamps (10, 210, 310).

In the second embodiment described above, while keeping the connection cable 5 contained in the container pipe 3 a being contained in the cable sleeve 180, and keeping the state in which the second sleeve section 182 is fitted inside one end side of the container pipe 3 a, the container pipe 3 a is held and fixed by the second pipe retaining section 112, whereby the connection cable 5 and the cable sleeve 180 are inserted in the guide chamber 113 a. However, the invention is not necessarily limited to the above. The container pipe 3 a may be directly held and fixed by the second pipe retaining section 112, and the connection cable 5, while being contained inside the guide chamber 113 a, may be guided externally through the guide opening section 113 b. By this, the cable sleeve 180 may be made unnecessary. Accordingly, the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the work for inserting the cable sleeve 180 can be made unnecessary. Therefore the work efficiency can be improved.

Also, in the second embodiment described above, the description is made as to the case where the cable sleeve 180 has the first sleeve section 181 and the second sleeve section 182, and the connection cable 5 is inserted in one of the first opening section 181 a and the second opening section 182 a that opens at one end of the second sleeve section 182 and passed through the other. However, the invention is not necessarily limited to the above. The cable sleeve 180 may be equipped with the first sleeve section 181, and the connection cable 5 may be inserted in one of the first opening section 181 a and the first hole section 181 formed in the side surface of the first sleeve section 181 on one side thereof and passed through the other. By this, the second sleeve section 182 may be made unnecessary. Accordingly, the manufacturing cost for the cable sleeve 180 can be reduced.

In the second embodiment described above, the description is made as to the case where the cable sleeve 180 has the slit 183 that is cut from the first opening section 181 a through the side surface of the first sleeve section 181 on one of the sides thereof to the second opening section 182 a. However, the invention is not necessarily limited to the above. It may be sufficient if the slit 183 is cut from the first opening section 181 a to the second opening section 182 a. For example, the slit may be cut from the first opening section 181 a through the side surface of the first sleeve section 181 on the other side to the second opening section 182 a.

Also, in accordance with the second embodiment described above, the description is made as to the case where the cable sleeve 180 has the slit 183. However, the invention is not necessarily limited to the above. The slit 183 may not be provided. By this, the manufacturing cost for the cable sleeve 180 can be reduced.

Furthermore, in the second embodiment described above, the description is made as to the case where the guide opening section 113 b is in a generally rectangular shape having short-sides in the axial direction O3 as viewed from the front. However, the invention is not necessarily limited to the above. The guide opening section 113 b may be in a generally circular shape or a generally rectangular shape having long-sides in the axial direction O3 as viewed from the front. By this, the opening area of the guide opening section 113 b can be secured. Accordingly, more connection cables 5 contained in the container pipe 3 a can be guided. Furthermore, when a plurality of connection cables 5 are passed through the guide opening section 113 b, the connection cables 5 can be prevented from being compressed and damaged. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A pipe holder adapted to retain a first pipe and a second pipe having a connector cable extending through the second pipe, wherein the connector cable has at least one end adapted to connect to a musical instrument, comprising: a first retaining section including a first fixing section, a first part hingedly connected to the first fixing section, and a first fastening member adapted to detachably hold and fix the first pipe in the first retaining section; a second retaining section including a second fixing section and a second part hingedly connected to the second fixing section, and a second fastening member adapted to detachably hold and fix the second pipe in the second retaining section; a second retaining chamber surrounded by an internal surface of the second retaining section; a coupling section for coupling the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the coupling section is between and adjacent to the first retaining section and the second retaining section; and a guide section formed in the coupling section between the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the guide section has a first opening into the second retaining chamber and a second opening to outside of the pipe holder, wherein the guide section is adapted to guide the connector cable through the guide section to the outside of the pipe holder, wherein the first and second fastening members are adapted to separately release the first and second pipes from the first and second retaining sections, respectively, and wherein the pipe holder is adapted to contain the connector cable in a chamber of the guide section while either the first or second pipes are being released from being held in the first and second retaining sections, respectively.
 2. The pipe holder of claim 1, wherein the guide section opens in a direction traversing a longitudinal direction of the first pipe that is held and fixed by the first retaining section.
 3. The pipe holder of claim 1, wherein the opening of the guide section is in a generally rectangular shape in a front view having short-sides along a line connecting the first retaining section and the second retaining section.
 4. The pipe holder of claim 1, further comprising: a cable sleeve that is made of an elastic member and has a first opening section opening in a first side of the cable sleeve and a second opening section opening in a second side of the cable sleeve, wherein the first opening section opens into the second opening section; and a first sleeve portion formed in a cylindrical shape in the cable sleeve that can be fitted inside the guide section and having the first opening section opened on one end side thereof.
 5. The pipe holder of claim 4, wherein the cable sleeve has a slit cut connecting the first opening section to the second opening section.
 6. The pipe holder of claim 5, wherein the slit of the cable sleeve has a cut width smaller than an outer diameter of the connector cable.
 7. The pipe holder of claim 4, further comprising: a second sleeve section formed in a cylindrical shape in the cable sleeve that is adapted to fit inside the second pipe and has the second opening section at one end thereof.
 8. The pipe holder of claim 1, wherein the guide section has an external opening substantially orthogonal with respect to the longitudinal directions of the first and second retaining sections and that is adapted to direct the connector cable in an outward direction orthogonal with respect to the longitudinal directions of the first and second retaining sections, wherein the guide section is adapted to avoid the connector cable from being pinched when the pipe holder is rotationally moved about the first pipe as an axis.
 9. The pipe holder of claim 1, wherein a volume of a chamber formed by the guide sections remains constant when the first and second pipes are held and released from a fixed state of being held by the first and second retaining sections, respectively.
 10. A pipe holder adapted to retain a first pipe and a second pipe having a connector cable extending through the second pipe, wherein the connector cable has at least one end adapted to connect to an electronic musical instrument, comprising: a first retaining section having a first fixing section and a first part hingedly connected to the first fixing section and adapted to detachably hold and fix the first pipe to the first fixing section; a second retaining section having a second fixing section and a second part hingedly connected to the second fixing section and adapted to detachably hold and fix the second pipe to the second fixing section; a second retaining chamber surrounded by an internal surface of the second retaining section; a coupling section for coupling the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the coupling section is between and adjacent to the first retaining section and the second retaining section; and a guide section formed in the coupling section between the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the guide section has a first opening into the second retaining chamber and a second opening to outside of the pipe holder, wherein the guide section is adapted to guide the connector cable through the guide section to the outside of the pipe holder, wherein the first and second parts are adapted to separately release the first and second pipes from the first and second retaining sections, respectively, and wherein the pipe holder is adapted to contain the connector cable in a chamber of the guide section while either the first or second pipes are being released from being held in the first and second retaining sections, respectively.
 11. The pipe holder of claim 10, further comprising: a bolt stopper section formed on a side of the second part having a through hole; a shaft section extending through the through hole adapted to press the second part toward the second fixing section to fix the second pipe in place.
 12. The pipe holder of claim 10, wherein the first retaining section is adapted to hold the first pipe in an orientation substantially perpendicular to the second retaining section adapted to hold the second pipe.
 13. The pipe holder of claim 12, wherein the guide section is adapted to guide the connection cable through an opening of the pipe holder in an area of the coupling section between the first retaining section and the second retaining section.
 14. A pipe holder adapted to retain a first pipe and a second pipe having a connector cable extending through the second pipe, wherein the connector cable is adapted to connect to an electronic musical instrument, comprising: a first retaining section having a first fixing section and a first part hingedly connected to the first fixing section and adapted to detachably hold and fix the first pipe to the first fixing section; a second retaining section having a second fixing section and a second part hingedly connected to the second fixing section and adapted to detachably hold and fix the second pipe to the second fixing section; a second retaining chamber surrounded by an internal surface of the second retaining section; a coupling section for coupling the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the coupling section is between and adjacent to the first retaining section and the second retaining section; a guide section formed in the coupling section between the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the guide section has a first opening into the second retaining chamber and a second opening to outside of the pipe holder, wherein the guide section is adapted to guide the connector cable through the guide section to the outside of the pipe holder; and a cable sleeve adapted to detachably fit to an end of the second pipe having an opening to the guide section, wherein the opening in the cable sleeve is adapted to guide the connector cable from the cable sleeve to the guide section.
 15. The pipe holder of claim 14, wherein the opening in the cable sleeve comprises a first opening section opening into the guide section and to the outside of the pipe holder and a second opening section adapted to open into the end of the second pipe, wherein the first opening section opens into the second opening section, wherein the first and second opening sections are adapted to guide the connector cable from the second pipe to the outside of the pipe holder.
 16. The pipe holder of claim 15, wherein the first opening section opens in a direction perpendicular to the second opening section.
 17. The pipe holder of claim 14, wherein the first retaining section, the second retaining section, and the guide section are made of metal and wherein the cable sleeve is made of an elastic member.
 18. The pipe holder of claim 14, wherein the cable sleeve is adapted to guide the connector cable to prevent the connector cable from contacting an end section of the second pipe.
 19. The pipe holder of claim 14, wherein the second retaining chamber has a protrusion, wherein the protrusion is adapted to fit to the second pipe to hold and fix the second pipe in the second retaining chamber.
 20. The pipe holder of claim 14, wherein the guide opening section is disposed between the first retaining section and the second retaining section, and wherein the pipe holder is adapted to guide the connector cable to extend outside of the pipe holder between the first pipe and the second pipe fixed in the pipe holder.
 21. The pipe holder of claim 14, wherein the guide section is formed between a first close wall and a second close wall that forms an external surface of the second part and faces the first close wall.
 22. The pipe holder of claim 21, wherein the guide section has an opening formed in a substantially rectangular shape.
 23. A pipe holder assembly for use with an electronic musical instrument, comprising: a first pipe; a second pipe having a connector cable extending through the second pipe, wherein the connector cable has at least one end adapted to connect to the electronic musical instrument; and a pipe holder adapted to retain the first pipe and the second pipe, comprising: a first retaining section including a first fixing section, a first part hingedly connected to the first fixing section, and a first fastening member adapted to detachably hold and fix the first pipe in the first retaining section; a second retaining section including a second fixing section and a second part hingedly connected to the second fixing section, and a second fastening member adapted to detachably hold and fix the second pipe in the second retaining section; a second retaining chamber surrounded by an internal surface of the second retaining section; a coupling section for coupling the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the coupling section is between and adjacent to the first retaining section and the second retaining section; and a guide section formed in the coupling section between the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the guide section has a first opening into the second retaining chamber and a second opening to outside of the pipe holder, wherein the guide section is adapted to guide the connector cable through the guide section to the outside of the pipe holder, wherein the first and second fastening members are adapted to separately release the first and second pipes from the first and second retaining sections, respectively, and wherein the pipe holder is adapted to contain the connector cable in a chamber of the guide section while either the first or second pipes are being released from being held in the first and second retaining sections, respectively.
 24. A pipe holder assembly for use with an electronic musical instrument, comprising: a first pipe; a second pipe having a connector cable extending through the second pipe, wherein the connector cable has at least one end adapted to connect to the electronic musical instrument; and a pipe holder adapted to retain the first pipe and the second pipe, comprising: a first retaining section having a first fixing section and a first part hingedly connected to the first fixing section and adapted to detachably hold and fix the first pipe to the first fixing section; a second retaining section having a second fixing section and a second part hingedly connected to the second fixing section and adapted to detachably hold and fix the second pipe to the second fixing section; a second retaining chamber surrounded by an internal surface of the second retaining section; a coupling section for coupling the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the coupling section is between and adjacent to the first retaining section and the second retaining section; and a guide section formed in the coupling section between the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the guide section has a first opening into the second retaining chamber and a second opening to outside of the pipe holder, wherein the guide section is adapted to guide the connector cable through the guide section to the outside of the pipe holder, wherein the first and second parts are adapted to separately release the first and second pipes from the first and second retaining sections, respectively, and wherein the pipe holder is adapted to contain the connector cable in a chamber of the guide section while either the first or second pipes are being released from being held in the first and second retaining sections, respectively.
 25. A pipe holder assembly for use with an electronic musical instrument comprising: a first pipe; a second pipe having a connector cable extending through the second pipe, wherein the connector cable is adapted to connect to the electronic musical instrument; and a pipe holder adapted to retain the first pipe and the second pipe, comprising: a first retaining section having a first fixing section and a first part hingedly connected to the first fixing section and adapted to detachably hold and fix the first pipe to the first fixing section; a second retaining section having a second fixing section and a second part hingedly connected to the second fixing section and adapted to detachably hold and fix the second pipe to the second fixing section; a second retaining chamber surrounded by an internal surface of the second retaining section; a coupling section for coupling the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the coupling section is between and adjacent to the first retaining section and the second retaining section; a guide section formed in the coupling section between the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the guide section has a first opening into the second retaining chamber and a second opening to outside of the pipe holder, wherein the guide section is adapted to guide the connector cable through the guide section to the outside of the pipe holder; and a cable sleeve adapted to detachably fit to an end of the second pipe having an opening to the guide section, wherein the opening in the cable sleeve is adapted to guide the connector cable from the cable sleeve to the guide section. 